A letter to my sister.

Where do I even start? After yesterday, I feel like I need to protect you. To keep you away from the bad people in this world. The ones that don't care and abuse. The ones that mock and sneer. The ones that lie and mislead. You're only 11-years-old, but you're growing up so fast. I won't be able to protect you for much longer as you grow into a young woman, but you need to know a few things. I want you to know that you are strong. You are smart. You are beautiful and you are powerful. Never forget any of that because many people will try to take it away from you. Make your voice heard, and even if some don't believe you, shout louder. Stand up for your views and never back down. People in this world will call you names. They will judge you. The will belittle you. But remember, you are strong. Stronger than you realise and you can overcome everything. God knows what will come of the next few weeks, months and years but there will be times in life when you have to pick a side. You will have to make tough decisions. In those times, you might have to go against friends and family, but those that truly love you will be behind you no matter what. I will be behind you no matter what. I will listen. I will care. I will believe you. I will love you. Sometimes life can be hard. It can be really sh*tty. You'll feel sad and frustrated and you won't know who to turn to. But believe me, there are others out there feeling the same as you. There are others out there that want change. You will find each other and you will rally together. You will make your voices heard. You are strong, Áine. Never forget that. And never forget that I love you. Forever.